Great idea reaches for the stars
Yarmouth County astronomer wins Rural Nova Scotia innovation pitch competition
Tim Doucette of Deep Sky Eye Observatory in Quinan, Yarmouth County, has won the top prize in this year's Rural Nova Scotia Tourism Innovation Pitch Competition sponsored by Ignite Atlantic and TIANS (the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia).
The pitch involved a proposal for a planetarium within the observatory, located in an area designated as North America's first Starlight Preserve by UNESCO's Starlight Foundation.
“Incorporating a planetarium into our facility would essentially allow us to offer stargazing experiences, presentations, and immersive journeys into the cosmos even during cloudy weather,” Doucette said. “It's about ensuring visitors have an unforgettable experience, rain or shine.”
Doucette's vision addresses the disappointment often felt by visitors when weather hampers outdoor activities.
“With the closest planetarium located three hours away in Halifax, our project significantly enhances the tourism appeal of our area. I firmly believe it will generate substantial tourism revenue and contribute to our community's growth.”
Doucette's story is one of resilience and passion. He is
legally blind, with only about 10 per cent of his eyesight. Yet he has extraordinary night vision.
He is an amateur astronomer with a passion for photographing the night sky. His
Deep Sky Eye Observatory offers stargazing experiences and on-site accommodations.
As winner of the Pitch Competition, Doucette wins a $5,000 prize and mentoring. As one of four regional competitors presenting, he also collected a $1,000 regional prize.
The Rural Nova Scotia Tourism Innovation Pitch Competition, jointly organized by Ignite Atlantic and TIANS, is a pivotal platform for rural entrepreneurs to showcase groundbreaking tourism concepts.
After a three-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic, this event returned with 24 different pitches in Baddeck, New Glasgow, Yarmouth, and the Annapolis Valley.
Wes Surrett, Northern Region Manager of Ignite and chair of the TIANS Board, expressed excitement about the competition's revival.
“It was overwhelming to see the passion and innovation from all corners of this great province,” he said. “The tourism industry is an essential economic driver in rural Nova Scotia and an accessible pathway to entrepreneurship.
“Although there was one winner of this competition, we hope to see many of these startups follow their passions,” Surrett said. “Our province will be a better place for our residents and our visitors if they do."